Which style of writing is NOT allowed in elementary or secondary schools?

Question

First, second, or third person?

Answer 1

Depends on the class and teacher, not the school. Some professors will [sic] allow you to write formal, analytical essays in the first person, such as, 'I notice that in every scene in which the Reporter appears, his face is blacked-out by the environment, which was an expressive use of Noir-style llighting techniques. I think that with chiaroscuro, Welles attempts to convey that an inquisitor into Kane's life could be any one of us.'

Writing in the second-person might be good for a Creative Writing class, which may or may not be offered in an Elementary or Secondary School. For example, writing a story which contains, '...after hearing the sad news, you felt as though a giant wad of gum was suddenly growing in your throat.' It's rarely used in a formal style but can be if related to the subject matter or part of a quote.

Third-person is most common. Many writers, especially fiction writers, alternate between third- and first- in stories. Stephen King does this. The style sort of conveys that in the third person, King himself is cognizant of all relevant events pertaining to the universe of the story, but is not afraid to go into the character's minds, especially when they are experiencing fear.

Depending on the type of writing, even the fourth person is sometimes allowed; for example, writing an instructional script for a video about a daily bedtime routine: "One should brush teeth thoroughly for at least two minutes, making sure to scrape the tongue afterwards."

The key is that no matter what the writing style is--formal (thesis paper, research, etc), journalistic, PR release, PSA, scriptwriting...the choice is up to the writer. The writer should, however, make sure this stays consistent unless altering on purpose. Even in these cases, staying consistent throughout the duration of the switch is a good idea.

Answer 2

I encourage my students to write in whatever person they want, as long as it stays consistent throughout the story. However, in elementary school, first and third person are most commonly used.

Answer 3

At least in New York, most elementary kids can write in any style as long as the teacher is okay with it. In secondary, third is preferable as the "I" or personal reference is not professional in essays and papers. I rarely see second person used culturally unless one is writing instructions or a manual.